Definitions for circadian rhythm

This page provides all possible meanings and translations of the word circadian rhythm

Princeton's WordNetRate this definition:(0.00 / 0 votes)

circadian rhythm(noun)

a daily cycle of activity observed in many living organisms

WiktionaryRate this definition:(0.00 / 0 votes)

circadian rhythm(Noun)

The "internal body clock" that regulates the (roughly) 24-hour cycle of biological processes in animals and plants.

FreebaseRate this definition:(0.00 / 0 votes)

Circadian rhythm

A circadian rhythm is any biological process that displays an endogenous, entrainable oscillation of about 24 hours. These rhythms are driven by a circadian clock, and rhythms have been widely observed in plants, animals, fungi and cyanobacteria. The term circadian comes from the Latin circa, meaning "around", and diem or dies, meaning "day". The formal study of biological temporal rhythms, such as daily, tidal, weekly, seasonal, and annual rhythms, is called chronobiology. Although circadian rhythms are endogenous, they are adjusted to the local environment by external cues called zeitgebers, commonly the most important of which is daylight.

U.S. National Library of MedicineRate this definition:(0.00 / 0 votes)

Circadian Rhythm

The regular recurrence, in cycles of about 24 hours, of biological processes or activities, such as sensitivity to drugs and stimuli, hormone secretion, sleeping, feeding, etc. This rhythm seems to be set by a 'biological clock' which seems to be set by recurring daylight and darkness.